“In minutes a man was murdered, how can a judicial inquiry complete its probe in three months? We cannot accept” was the voice of protestors under the group, ‘Ka Sur Ki Nong Jaiñtia’ in East Jaiñtia Hills district today as they marched with black banners and placards to condemn the killing of the ex-HNLC leader Cherishterfield Thangkhiew.
Anti-government slogans were chanted by them as they marched from Lad Sutnga and along the Deputy Commissioner’s office at Khliehriat. A public meeting was also held wherein leaders of various pressure groups then headed to Jowai for a similar protest.
Demanding justice, the protestors condemned police action and said that the killing of the ex-rebel leader, who had surrendered and was a mediator between the government and the outfit, has disturbed peace in the State.
Speakers at the public meeting included leaders of various pressure groups Hynñiewtrep Youth Council, East Jaiñtia National Council, Khasi Students Union, Jaiñtia Students Union, Federation of Khasi Jaiñtia Garo People Jaiñtia Hills, STIEH, HANM Women Wing, Jaiñtia National Council and others.
A similar meeting by a group, ‘Ka Sur Na Shaphang Shathie Sepngi’ (SSS) is scheduled at South West Khasi Hills district to show their solidarity to the family of the ex-HNLC leader by holding a peace rally from Mawkyrwat C&RD block office and a candle light vigil at Mawkyrwat market on Saturday.
Meanwhile, a group, ‘Ka Sur Ki Nong Mawlai’ has appealed residents of Mawlai to participate in the ‘Signature Campaign Justice for (L) Cherishterfield Thangkhiew’ tomorrow from 10 am to 5 pm.
The signature campaign will be held at Mawlai Pump and Mawlai Standbus followed by a candlelight vigil at Mawlai Standbus.